1. Double-Check Your Car Is Locked Before Walking Away
When you press your remote device, make sure you hear the central locking activate. Then it is best not to just rely on this sound, physically check the door to see that the car is locked by pulling on the door handle ... in order to make ‘doubly’ sure.
This simple 5 second procedure can give great peace of mind. (If you have a keyless entry system, be careful not to re-activate the central locking by using this procedure. You may have to look through your windows to check your internal catches instead.)
2. Park In A Good Spot
If you can, park in a well-lit spot (even in the daytime in case you return to your car in the dark), and the best idea is to park where there are lots of cars. More people around, means more eyes on the scene, and therefore more safety for your vehicle ... and you!
3. Hide Your Stuff
If your belongings can be seen on the seat of your car, or on the floor, or there are even some coins lying in your console, these items could entice potential thieves to break into your vehicle to grab your personal possessions. Then they will rifle through the rest of your car to see what else they can grab. The best idea is to take the invitation away and put your belongings in the boot or a concealed compartment!
Also do not leave private documents in plain view, especially ones displaying your banking or credit card details, as these can lead to identity theft. Also documents displaying your name and address can create a situation for an opportunistic thief to take a trip out to your place ... because they know you are not home!
4. Don’t Leave Your Car Running Unattended
If you leave your keys in the ignition with the car running, while you dash into a shop or back into the house, for just even a moment, you may run the risk of coming out and finding your car gone! This is especially dangerous, and illegal, if you leave children in the car while doing so. The best idea is to make sure everything is secure before leaving it unattended ... even if only for a moment!
5. Make Sure Your Number Plates Are Securely Attached
Loose number plates present the would-be thief with yet another opportunity for stealing. If your plates can be easily removed they can then be re-attached to another vehicle to be used for petrol station ‘drive-offs’ and possibly robberies. The best idea is to check your number plates regularly in case they have become loose, and if you notice that they are missing, report the situation as fast as you can! They are your registration numbers ... and for your use only!
6. Keep Your Keys Safe
If you are placing your keys into your pocket, it is a good idea to check to see if it would be easy to pick your keys out of your pocket. When at home, it is a good idea to not take your keys into the bedroom with you, as car owners can be threatened when possible home invaders haven’t easily found the keys they wanted in another room.
Also car keys should not be left lying near an open window in case a quick thinking thief spots the unsecured opportunity! The best idea is ... to think about where you keep your keys!
7. Use Extra Security Devices
There are many extra security devices used or are available for your vehicle today. Cars can have alarm systems, immobilisers or steering locks installed. They can also have a door locking system that activates when you pull away from the kerb, as a prevention for car-jackings. And in the unfortunate event that your car may be stolen, it is a good idea to have a tracking system installed. This can help with a speedy recovery of your prized vehicle.
But the best idea would be to contact Blacks Locksmith in Brisbane and Beenleigh on (07) 3382 0755 ... to discuss your security needs!
Need Help Improving Your Vehicle Security?
From immobilisers to replacement keys and expert security advice, Blacks Mobile Locksmiths can help keep your vehicle protected from theft.
